The Bible is a remarkable book that presents the reader with a true paradox. A simple child with no formal theological education may read its pages with insight, understanding, and commitment. A devout scholar who has invested forty years of intensive study of language, culture, history, and theology may read its pages and feel that there is much that lies undiscovered in the text. Both descriptions are true. The Bible is a rich field upon which gold, silver, and diamonds lie glistening in the sunlight, easily available to any who would pick them up. The Bible is also a geological formation that promises to yield a rich, abundant source of energy if only time, energy, money, and ingenuity are invested in a mining endeavor whose technology is still being developed.

While not denying that one may profitably read Psalm 23, John 3:16, Acts 9, or numerous other passages without any academic preparation, this study arises from the conviction that our understanding of the Bible will always be enhanced by deeper study. We will benefit from the use of some tools of Bible study as much as a mechanic benefits from an array of specialized tools in the garage.

Participants will learn the purpose of various reference tools used in Bible study. They will develop some personal competence in the use of these tools through practical Bible study exercises.